This Wednesday, Ecuador will face Argentina in a key match of the final round of South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The game will be held at the Monumental Isidro Romero Carbo Stadium in Guayaquil, and there’s a solid opportunity to bet on goals in this matchup.
Match Preview
Under coach Sebastián Beccacece, Ecuador has played a strategic style of football, having secured their World Cup spot early. They recently went through a unique phase with four consecutive goalless draws, showcasing their strong defense with just five goals conceded in 17 rounds, the best record in South America.
At home, Ecuador remains unbeaten in 14 consecutive qualification matches, emphasizing their home advantage. However, matches have generally been low-scoring. In 12 of their last 13 qualifying games, only one goal has been scored. With their qualification already confirmed, Ecuador is expected to stick to their cautious game plan, likely leading to another strategic encounter.
Argentina has performed very well in qualifiers, finishing first with a notable lead over other teams. They recently achieved a 3-0 victory against Venezuela, marking their fifth win in the last six matches. Under coach Lionel Scaloni, Argentina has succeeded in 16 of their last 18 away qualification matches, showing consistency even without pressure from the standings.
Notably, Argentina has scored exactly one goal in each of their last six away qualifiers. The absence of Lionel Messi in the upcoming match reduces their attacking options. Both teams may be inclined to adopt a cautious approach, hinting that the match could be yet another low-scoring one.
Probable Lineups
- Ecuador: Galíndez, Pacho, Estupiñán, Hincapié, Preciado, Ordóñez, Páez, Vite, Alcívar, Valencia, Angulo
- Argentina: Martínez, Otamendi, Romero, Molina, Tagliafico, De Paul, Paredes, Almada, Mastantuono, Álvarez, Messi
Match Facts and Head-to-Head
- Ecuador has kept a clean sheet in 9 of their last 10 qualification matches.
- Argentina has scored exactly 1 goal in each of their last 6 away qualifiers.
- In 12 of Ecuador’s last 13 matches, no more than one goal has been scored.
Prediction
Considering both teams’ focus on control and defense, and the lack of tournament motivation, a low-scoring match is anticipated. Argentina will be without Messi, and Ecuador is expected to maintain their disciplined strategy. Our prediction is for “Total under 2.0” at odds of 1.75.
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